The Daily Star Ireland
A wave of shock has swept through Downpatrick, Co Down, after a violent attack on a local priest and the death of a man over the weekend. The two incidents, which police believe may be linked, have left parishioners and residents deeply unsettled.
Attack at St Patrick’s Church
On Sunday morning, Canon John Murray, a long-serving priest who was due to retire later this week, was assaulted inside St Patrick’s Church. According to police, a man approached him requesting to make a confession shortly before the morning Mass. Instead, the man allegedly struck Canon Murray on the head with a bottle as parishioners arrived.
Canon Murray, who has served in the parish for around 11 years, sustained a serious head injury and was taken to hospital. He remains in a serious but stable condition and is said to be “increasingly comfortable” as he recovers.
Linked Death of Local Man
While attending the scene of the assault, police received another call reporting the death of 56-year-old Stephen Brannigan at a property in Marian Park, also in Downpatrick. Mr Brannigan’s family described him as a beloved father and grandfather. A 30-year-old man has been arrested and remains in custody on suspicion of murder.
Special Mass and Community Response
A special Mass was held at St Colmcille’s Church to offer prayers for Canon Murray’s recovery and to support Mr Brannigan’s family. Bishop Alan McGuckian told the congregation that the events had left the community “shaken and upset deeply.” He encouraged people to place their trust in God during such a traumatic time, noting that hope becomes essential when situations feel beyond human control.
Speaking after the service, Bishop McGuckian expressed a desire to meet Mr Brannigan’s family in the coming days. He also praised the courage of parishioners and emphasised the importance of standing together as a community in the face of tragedy.
Police Investigation
Detective Inspector Michelle Griffin confirmed that a murder investigation is underway and appealed for anyone with information to contact detectives on 101. The PSNI reiterated that the attack on Canon Murray took place at approximately 10:10am on Sunday and involved a bottle as the weapon.
Authorities are now working to determine the exact circumstances connecting the two incidents, as Downpatrick continues to grapple with the shock and grief of a weekend marked by violence.
